Youth and Family Advocate I - Full-Time

Montgomery County•Norristown, PA

49d•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth & Family Advocate (YFA) works with alleged dependent and/or delinquent youths between the ages of 12-18 being served in the Shelter Division. This position is responsible for the direct daily care and supervision of youth. The YFA must adhere to the Child Protective Services Law, the Juvenile Act and the Department of Human Services state regulations. All work is performed under supervision. The YFA is supervised by the Shelter Supervisor. Position covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree, preferably in social sciences; one [1] year of relevant experience.
Driver's license or reliable transportation.
Must obtain Pa. criminal history check, FBI clearance, child abuse clearance and pre-employment drug screening prior to employment.
Must be available to work rotating shifts, holidays, and weekends.
Must be physically capable of handling adolescents during crisis situations using established procedures.
Must obtain a physical examination report from a licensed physician prior to employment.
Must have excellent inter-personal, verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

Process new admission documents, personal belongings and complete Intake procedure.
Provide proper documentation and reports on incidents involving children.
Mentors, supervises, and participates with youths in daily residential activities including recreation, education, work, meals, etc.
Ensures the safety and well-being of youth both physically and mentally.
Ensures that all policies and procedures are being followed in relation to shelter procedures.
Ensure residents are adhering to facility policy and that their needs are being met.
Initiates and conducts structured activities with the youth being served in the program.
Perform other related work as required and properly communicates pertinent information to supervisors.
Ability to guide and supervise juveniles and to use safe crisis management techniques effectively.
Must sit with residents during mealtime, teaching table manners and good etiquette.
Ability to maintain harmonious relationships with the public and other employees.
Must have good moral and ethical character.
Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.